My NICHOLS line at least lived in Caroline and Halifax cos, VA;
many went to TN (Smith, Wilson and some other cos); then some
moved on to Marion/Clinton/Fayette cos area of IL.

My 5g grandparents were John NICHOLS and Mary OWEN. The little bit I
have on John: his wife was Mary OWEN (d/o Richard and Elizabeth OWEN);
he bought and sold land and a slave in 1732 in Caroline Co, VA; they
bought and sold land in Halifax Co, VA, and possibly in Goochland Co,
VA 1734-1746; they had 10 ch; he signed his will 8 Oct 1773 in Halifax
Co, VA and it was admitted to Probate there 22 Apr 1774. John is the
proverbial brick wall. Who were his ancestors and where did they come
from?